Systems and methods for securing a tether to a distribution cable

TECHNICAL FIELD

0001The principles disclosed herein relate to fiber optic cable systems. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to fiber optic cable systems having main cables and branch cables.

BACKGROUND

0002Passive optical networks are becoming prevalent in part because service providers want to deliver high bandwidth communication capabilities to customers. Passive optical networks are a desirable choice for delivering high speed communication data because they may not employ active electronic devices, such as amplifiers and repeaters, between a central office and a subscriber termination. The absence of active electronic devices may decrease network complexity and/or cost and may increase network reliability.

0003<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> illustrates a network <b>100</b> deploying passive fiber optic lines. As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, the network <b>100</b> may include a central office <b>110</b> that connects a number of end subscribers <b>115</b> (also called end users <b>115</b> herein) in a network. The central office <b>110</b> may additionally connect to a larger network such as the Internet (not shown) and a public switched telephone network (PSTN). The network <b>100</b> may also include fiber distribution hubs (FDHs) <b>130</b> having one or more optical splitters (e.g., 1-to-8 splitters, 1-to-16 splitters, or 1-to-32 splitters) that generate a number of individual fibers that may lead to the premises of an end user <b>115</b>. The various lines of the network can be aerial or housed within underground conduits (e.g., see conduit <b>105</b>).

0004The portion of network <b>100</b> that is closest to central office <b>110</b> is generally referred to as the F1 region, where F1 is the “feeder fiber” from the central office. The F1 portion of the network may include a distribution cable having on the order of 12 to 48 fibers; however, alternative implementations may include fewer or more fibers. The portion of network <b>100</b> that includes an FDH <b>130</b> and a number of end users <b>115</b> may be referred to as an F2 portion of network <b>100</b>. Splitters used in an FDH <b>130</b> may accept a feeder cable having a number of fibers and may split those incoming fibers into, for example, 216 to 432 individual distribution fibers that may be associated with a like number of end user locations.

0005Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, the network <b>100</b> includes a plurality of breakout locations <b>125</b> at which branch cables (e.g., drop cables, stub cables, etc.) are separated out from main cables (e.g., distribution cables). Breakout locations can also be referred to as tap locations or branch locations and branch cables can also be referred to as breakout cables. At a breakout location, fibers of the branch cables are typically spliced to selected fibers of the main cable. However, for certain applications, the interface between the fibers of the main cable and the fibers of the branch cables can be connectorized.

0006Stub cables are typically branch cables that are routed from breakout locations to intermediate access locations such as a pedestals, drop terminals or hubs. Intermediate access locations can provide connector interfaces located between breakout locations and subscriber locations. A drop cable is a cable that typically forms the last leg to a subscriber location. For example, drop cables are routed from intermediate access locations to subscriber locations. Drop cables can also be routed directly from breakout locations to subscriber locations thereby bypassing any intermediate access locations

0007Branch cables can be manually separated out from a main cable in the field using field splices. Field splices are typically housed within sealed splice enclosures. Manual splicing in the field can be time consuming and expensive.

0008As an alternative to manual splicing in the field, pre-terminated cable systems have been developed. Pre-terminated cable systems include factory integrated breakout locations manufactured at predetermined positions along the length of a main cable (e.g., see U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,961,623; 5,125,060; and 5,210,812). However, the installation of pre-terminated cables can be difficult. For example, for underground applications, pre-terminations can complicate passing pre-terminated cable through the underground conduit typically used to hold fiber optic cable (e.g., 1.25 inch inner diameter conduit). Locating and accessing pre-terminated breakouts can be difficult in underground applications. Similarly, for aerial applications, pre-terminations can complicate passing pre-terminated cable through aerial cable retention loops.

SUMMARY

0009Certain aspects of the disclosure relate to fiber optic cable systems, packaging configurations and methods that facilitate the effective use and installation of pre-terminated fiber optic cable.

0010A variety of additional inventive aspects will be set forth in the description that follows. The inventive aspects can relate to individual features and to combinations of features. It is to be understood that both the forgoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the broad inventive concepts upon which the embodiments disclosed herein are based.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> shows a prior art passive fiber optic network;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> is a perspective view of a cable system installed underground and accessed via a hand-hole location;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> is a cross-sectional view of a distribution cable according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> is a cross-sectional view of a tether according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> is a schematic view of the cable system of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> including a securement system for fastening the length of tether to the distribution cable according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> is a flowchart showing a process for securing a tether to a distribution cable using a first example securement system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 7-9</figref> are side perspective views of a cable system in different stages of the securing process depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref>;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref> is a side perspective view of the cable system and first securement system of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref> deployed in an underground conduit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref> is a flowchart showing a process for releasing the tether from the first securement system of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref> according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref> is a schematic view of the cable system of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref> released from a securement system and optically coupled to telecommunications equipment at a hand-hole location according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref> is a flowchart showing a process for securing a tether to a distribution cable using a second securement system;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 14</figref> is a flowchart showing a process for implementing the first secure operation of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref>;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 15-16</figref> are perspective views of a cable system in different stages of the securing process depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 14</figref>;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 17</figref> is a flowchart showing a process for implementing the second secure operation of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref>;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 18-19</figref> are perspective views of a cable system in different stages of the securing process depicted in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 17</figref>;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 20</figref> is a flowchart showing a process for implementing the third secure operation of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref>;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 21</figref> is a perspective view of a cable system including the first, second, and third retention arrangements and the first and second release devices;

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 22</figref> is a side perspective view of the cable system of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 18</figref> deployed and aligned with a hand-hole location; and

<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 23</figref> is a flowchart showing a process for releasing the tether cable from the second securement system of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref>.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

0030The present disclosure relates to fiber optic cable systems. In particular, the present disclosure relates to a pre-terminated fiber optic cable system for releasably securing a tether to a distribution cable beyond a breakout location.

0031<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> illustrates a cable system <b>200</b> including the main cable (e.g., a distribution cable) <b>220</b> and a branch cable (e.g., tether) <b>240</b> that separates (i.e., branches out) from the main cable <b>220</b> at a breakout location <b>206</b>. The breakout location <b>206</b> is protected and sealed by a structure, such as an enclosure <b>208</b>. The tether cable <b>240</b> extends outwardly from the enclosure <b>208</b> along a length L and terminates at one or more connectors <b>256</b>. The connectors <b>256</b> are configured to optically couple to a drop terminal <b>214</b> or other piece of telecommunications equipment at a hand-hole location <b>210</b>.

0032A typical breakout location is provided at an intermediate point along a length of a distribution cable. For example, the distribution cable <b>220</b> can include six separate buffer tubes <b>222</b> each containing multiple (e.g., twelve) fibers <b>224</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>). The buffer tubes <b>222</b> may be gel filled. The fibers <b>224</b> within each buffer tube <b>222</b> can include either ribbon fibers or loose fibers. The distribution cable <b>220</b> can also include a central strength member <b>226</b> for reinforcing the cable <b>220</b>, and an outer strength layer/member <b>228</b> such as aramid fiber/yarn (e.g., Kevlar®) also for reinforcing the cable (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>). The distribution cable <b>220</b> further includes an outer jacket <b>230</b> that encloses the buffer tubes <b>222</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>). Ripcords <b>232</b> can be provided for facilitating tearing away portions of the jacket <b>230</b> to access the fibers <b>224</b> within the jacket <b>230</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>).

0033While distribution cables <b>220</b> typically have a large number of fibers, the various aspects of the present disclosure are also applicable to distribution cables <b>220</b> having fewer numbers of fibers (e.g., 2 or more fibers). For example, the distribution cable <b>220</b> can include an outer jacket enclosing a single buffer tube and at least two strength members extending on opposite sides of the single buffer tube. An outer strength member, such as aramid fiber/yarn, can surround the single buffer tube within the jacket. The single buffer tube can enclose loose fibers or ribbon fibers.

0034The tether (e.g., a drop cable or a stub cable) <b>240</b> most commonly has a fewer number of fibers as compared to the number of fibers provided within the distribution cable <b>220</b>. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> illustrates a tether cable <b>240</b> configured to join to the distribution cable <b>220</b> at the breakout location <b>206</b>. The tether <b>240</b> is depicted as having a flat cable configuration. The flat cable configuration includes a central buffer tube <b>242</b> containing fibers <b>244</b> (e.g., typically one to twelve loose or ribbonized fibers). Strength members <b>246</b> (e.g., flexible rods formed by glass fiber reinforced epoxy) are positioned on opposite sides of the central buffer tube <b>242</b>. An outer jacket <b>250</b> surrounds the strength members <b>246</b> and the buffer tube <b>242</b>.

0035The outer jacket <b>250</b> includes an outer perimeter having an elongated transverse cross-sectional shape. An additional strength layer <b>248</b> (e.g., aramid yarn, such as Kevlar®) can be positioned between the buffer tube <b>242</b> and the outer jacket <b>250</b>. As shown at <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref>, the transverse cross-sectional shape includes oppositely positioned, generally parallel sides <b>252</b> interconnected by rounded ends <b>254</b>. However, any suitable cable configuration can be utilized for both the distribution cable and the tether cable.

0036The tether <b>240</b> includes fibers that extend between first and second ends. The first ends of the tether fibers <b>244</b> are preferably spliced to selected fibers <b>224</b> of the distribution cable <b>220</b> at the breakout location <b>206</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref>). The second ends of the tether fibers <b>244</b> are configured to optically couple to the telecommunications equipment <b>214</b> at the hand-hole location <b>210</b> (see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref>). The second ends can either be connectorized or unconnectorized.

0037Referring now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>, in general, the cable system <b>200</b> is installed within underground conduits <b>212</b> by pulling the main cable <b>220</b> through the conduits <b>212</b>. Typically, the cable <b>220</b> is pulled in a direction such that the connectors <b>256</b> of the tether <b>240</b> trail the enclosure <b>208</b>. In other embodiments, the cable <b>220</b> can be pulled in the opposite direction. The distribution cable <b>220</b> is arranged within the conduits <b>212</b> such that a portion of each tether <b>240</b> branching from the cable <b>220</b> is accessible from a hand-hole location <b>210</b>.

0038In some embodiments, the distribution cable <b>220</b> is arranged such that the connectors <b>256</b> of the tether <b>240</b> are offset from the hand-hole location <b>210</b> in one direction and the enclosure <b>208</b> is offset from the hand-hole location <b>210</b> in an opposite direction. In such embodiments, the enclosure <b>208</b> is located within a conduit <b>212</b> and is not accessible by a technician. In other embodiments, the distribution cable <b>220</b> is arranged such that the connectors <b>256</b> of a tether <b>240</b> are substantially aligned with the hand-hole location <b>210</b>. In still other embodiments, the distribution cable <b>220</b> is arranged such that the enclosure <b>208</b> is substantially aligned with the hand-hole <b>210</b>.

0039After being optically coupled to the distribution cable at one end, the remainder of the tether <b>240</b> can be secured along a length to the distribution cable <b>220</b>. In certain embodiments, the tether <b>240</b> can be secured to the distribution cable <b>220</b> along the entire length L of the tether <b>240</b>. In other embodiments, only the far end (e.g., the connectorized end) of the tether <b>240</b> is secured. Securing the tether <b>240</b> mitigates the chances of damaging the tether <b>240</b> and tether connectors <b>256</b> during installation of the distribution cable <b>220</b>.

0040<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> illustrates a securing system <b>300</b> for fastening the tether <b>240</b> to the distribution cable <b>220</b>. The securement system <b>300</b> includes a retention structure <b>302</b> configured to secure the tether <b>240</b> to the distribution cable <b>220</b>. In the example shown, the retention arrangement <b>302</b> secures the tether <b>240</b> to the distribution cable <b>220</b> adjacent the tether connectors <b>256</b>. In other embodiments, however, the retention arrangement <b>302</b> can secure the tether <b>240</b> to the distribution cable <b>220</b> along any portion of the tether <b>240</b>. Multiple retention arrangements can also be used to secure the tether <b>240</b>.

0041The securement system <b>300</b> also includes a release device <b>304</b> extending along the distribution cable <b>220</b> and the length L (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref>) of the tether cable <b>240</b>. As shown at <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref>, the release device <b>304</b> extends generally from the tether connectors <b>256</b> to the breakout location <b>206</b>. Typically, the release device <b>304</b> is positioned to enable at least a portion of the release device to be accessible by a user from the hand-hole location <b>210</b>.

0042In use, a user can access the securement system <b>300</b> through the hand-hole location <b>210</b>. To separate the tether cable <b>240</b> from the distribution cable <b>220</b>, the user grasps the release device <b>304</b> and pulls. Pulling the release device <b>304</b> disengages the retention arrangement <b>302</b>, thereby freeing the tether <b>240</b>. For example, in some embodiments, pulling the release device <b>304</b> can break or tear the retention arrangement <b>302</b>. In other embodiments, however, pulling the release device <b>304</b> unbinds the retention arrangement <b>302</b> without breaking the retention arrangement <b>302</b>.

0043Referring now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6-20</figref>, the principles of the present disclosure can best be understood through some example applications. As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 6-11</figref>, a tether cable <b>240</b> can be releasably secured to a distribution cable <b>220</b> using a first securement system <b>400</b> having feature that are examples of inventive aspects in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> depicts an operation flow for a process <b>600</b> by which a tether <b>240</b> can be releasably secured to a distribution cable <b>220</b> using the first securement system <b>400</b>. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 7-9</figref> illustrate the results of the operations of the securing process <b>600</b>.

0044The securing process <b>600</b> begins at start module <b>602</b> and proceeds to breakout operation <b>604</b>. The breakout operation <b>604</b> attaches a tether to a distribution cable at a breakout location. Typically, the breakout operation <b>604</b> includes splicing the tether to the distribution cable and providing a protective enclosure around the splice. Further details regarding embodiments of the breakout operation <b>604</b> can be found in U.S. Ser. No. 60/781,280, filed Mar. 9, 2006, and entitled “FIBER OPTIC CABLE BREAKOUT CONFIGURATION”; U.S. Ser. No. 60/781,622, filed Mar. 9, 2006, and entitled “MID-SPAN BREAK-OUT WITH HELICAL FIBER ROUTING”; and U.S. Ser. No. 60/781,621, filed Mar. 9, 2006, and entitled “MID-SPAN BREAK OUT WITH POTTED CLOSURE,” the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

0045The process <b>600</b> proceeds to arrange operation <b>606</b>. The arrange operation <b>606</b> provides a wire or other type of release device (e.g., aramid fiber/yarn, etc.) having a length generally twice the length L of the tether cable. The arrange operation <b>606</b> lays a first portion of the wire along the tether from the enclosure to the tether connectors. Typically, the first portion of wire is about half the overall length of the wire. The results of arrange operation <b>606</b> are shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref>.

0046<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref> illustrates a tether <b>240</b> extending outwardly from an enclosure <b>208</b> along a distribution cable <b>220</b>. The tether <b>240</b> terminates at one or more connectors <b>256</b> a distance from the enclosure <b>208</b>. A first length <b>414</b> of wire <b>404</b> extends along the distribution cable <b>220</b> adjacent the tether cable <b>240</b>. A first end <b>403</b> of the wire <b>404</b> is secured (e.g., taped) to the distribution cable <b>220</b> adjacent the enclosure <b>208</b>. An intermediate end <b>406</b> of the wire <b>404</b> is secured to the distribution cable <b>220</b> adjacent the tether connectors <b>256</b>. The wire <b>404</b> can be secured around the cables <b>220</b>, <b>240</b> using tape, adhesive, or other such means.

0047In other embodiments, the first securement system <b>400</b> can include wire <b>404</b> routed in the opposite direction such that the ends <b>403</b>, <b>405</b> of the wire <b>404</b> are secured adjacent the tether connectors <b>256</b> and the intermediate end <b>406</b> of the wire <b>404</b> is secured adjacent the breakout enclosure <b>208</b>.

0048Continuing with process <b>600</b>, an enclose operation <b>608</b> wraps foil or another type of material (e.g., tape, plastic wrap, etc.) around the distribution cable, the tether cable, and the first length of wire. In a preferred embodiment, the enclosure operation <b>608</b> wraps foil from the enclosure to the tether connectors. The results of the enclose operation <b>608</b> are shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>. Foil <b>402</b> is wrapped around the distribution cable <b>220</b>, the first length <b>414</b> of wire <b>404</b>, and the tether <b>240</b>. The foil <b>402</b> can be secured around the cables <b>220</b>, <b>240</b> and wire <b>404</b> using tape, adhesive, or other such means.

0049A fold (i.e., loop-back) operation <b>610</b> routes the remaining wire from the tether connectors back to the enclosure. Fold operation <b>610</b> lays the second length of wire, from the intermediate end to a second end of wire over the foil. In some embodiments, the second end of the wire is taped to the foil adjacent the enclosure. In other embodiments, the second end of the wire is secured to the distribution cable. The results of operation <b>610</b> are shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref>.

0050<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref> illustrates a second length <b>424</b> of wire <b>404</b> lain over the foil <b>402</b>. The foil <b>402</b> encloses the first length <b>414</b> of wire <b>404</b>, the distribution cable <b>220</b>, and the tether <b>240</b>. In the example shown, a second end <b>405</b> of the wire <b>404</b> is secured to the distribution cable <b>220</b> adjacent the enclosure <b>208</b>. In other embodiments, however, the second end <b>405</b> can be secured at any desired point along the length of the distribution cable <b>220</b>. In some embodiments, the second length <b>424</b> of the wire <b>404</b> is configured to be manipulated by a user. In other embodiments, the second end <b>405</b> is configured to be grasped. In one such embodiment, the second end <b>405</b> includes a ring <b>407</b> suitable for grasping with pliers or other such tools. In another embodiment, the second end <b>405</b> is configured to be grasped by hand. The process <b>600</b> ends at stop module <b>612</b>.

0051Referring to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 10-12</figref>, the tether <b>240</b> can be released from the distribution cable <b>220</b> after deployment (i.e., payout) of the distribution cable <b>220</b>. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref> illustrates the cable system <b>200</b> including the first securement system <b>400</b> installed in an underground conduit <b>212</b>. The second length <b>424</b> of the wire <b>404</b> of the first securement system <b>400</b> is accessible from a hand-hole location <b>210</b>. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref> shows an operation flow for a process <b>1100</b> by which the tether <b>240</b> can be released from the first securement system <b>400</b>. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref> illustrates the cable system <b>200</b> after the tether <b>240</b> has been released from the distribution cable <b>220</b> and coupled to the telecommunications equipment <b>214</b> at the hand-hole location <b>210</b>.

0052As shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, the process <b>1100</b> begins at start module <b>1102</b> and proceeds to an access operation <b>1104</b>. Access operation <b>1104</b> opens a hand-hole location to enable a user, such as a field technician, to view a tether and a distribution cable. In the example shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref>, the user can view a portion of the tether <b>240</b> intermediate the enclosure <b>208</b> and the tether connectors <b>256</b> through the hand-hole location <b>210</b>. In other embodiments, however, the user can view the enclosure <b>208</b> or the connectors <b>256</b> of the tether cable <b>240</b> through the hand-hole location <b>210</b>.

0053In some embodiments, the process <b>1100</b> proceeds to a grasp operation <b>1106</b>, in which a user takes hold of the second length of wire. For example, in one embodiment of the grasp operation <b>1106</b>, a user can cut tape wrapped around the second end <b>405</b> of the wire <b>404</b> to expose a ring <b>407</b>. In other embodiments, however, the process <b>1100</b> proceeds from the access operation <b>1104</b> to a cut operation <b>1108</b>.

0054The cut operation <b>1108</b> pulls the second length of wire in a direction away from the distribution cable. In a preferred embodiment, the cut operation <b>1108</b> pulls the second length of wire away from the distribution cable and the tether connectors. Pulling the second length of wire causes the intermediate end of the wire to begin cutting the foil securing the tether to the distribution cable. The tether connectors are released from the foil by tearing at least a portion of the foil adjacent the connectors with the intermediate end of the wire. In some embodiments, the cut operation <b>1108</b> pulls the wire sufficient to tear the foil from the tether connectors to the hand-hole location. In other embodiments, however, the cut operation <b>1108</b> pulls the wire sufficient to tear the foil from the tether connectors to the enclosure.

0055A connect operation <b>1110</b> obtains a sufficient segment of freed tether to optically couple the tether to the telecommunications equipment at the hand-hole location. Results of the connect operation <b>1110</b> are shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref>. A portion of the tether <b>240</b> has been released from the distribution cable <b>220</b>. In the example shown, the tether <b>240</b> extends through an aperture in the bottom of the telecommunications equipment <b>214</b>. In other embodiments, however, any desired optical coupling between the tether <b>240</b> and the telecommunications equipment <b>214</b> can be achieved. The process <b>1100</b> ends at stop module <b>1112</b>.

0056Referring now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 13-18</figref>, a tether <b>240</b> can be secured to a distribution cable <b>220</b> using a second securement system <b>500</b> having feature that are examples of inventive aspects in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. The second securement system <b>500</b> includes any combination of a first retention arrangement, a second retention arrangement, and a third retention arrangement.

0057<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref> depicts an operation flow for a coupling process <b>1300</b> by which a tether can be releasably secured to a distribution cable using the second securement system. The coupling process <b>1300</b> begins at start module <b>1302</b> and proceeds to a breakout operation <b>1304</b>. The breakout operation <b>1304</b> attaches a tether to a distribution cable at a breakout location similar to breakout operation <b>604</b> of process <b>600</b>.

0058A first secure operation <b>1306</b> couples at least the tether connectors <b>256</b> to the distribution cable using a first retention arrangement. In general, the first retention device is configured to disengage the tether from the distribution cable using a first release device. For example, <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 14</figref> illustrates one operational flow for a process <b>1400</b> for implementing the first secure operation <b>1306</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref>. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 15 and 16</figref> illustrate the results of the operations of process <b>1400</b>.

0059The process <b>1400</b> begins at start module <b>1402</b> and proceeds to a couple operation <b>1404</b>. The couple operation <b>1404</b> joins at least the tether connectors to the distribution cable using a first retention arrangement. For example, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref>, the couple operation <b>1404</b> can wrap vinyl tape <b>512</b> around the distribution cable <b>220</b> and the tether <b>240</b>. In a preferred embodiment, the tape <b>512</b> is looped around the distribution cable <b>220</b> and tether <b>240</b> at spaced intervals (e.g., about every twelve inches) between the enclosure <b>208</b> and the tether connectors <b>256</b>. In other embodiments, a single piece of tape <b>512</b> wrapped adjacent the tether connectors <b>256</b> can suffice.

0060A thread operation <b>1406</b> engages a first release device with the first retention arrangement. In a preferred embodiment, a flexible strand is looped around the first retention arrangement (e.g., see <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16</figref> at loops <b>508</b>). For example, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16</figref>, a strand of aramid fiber/yarn (e.g., Kevlar® or other tough, but flexible material) <b>504</b> can be sequentially looped around the tape <b>512</b>. The process <b>1400</b> ends at stop module <b>1408</b>.

0061Referring back to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref>, the process <b>1300</b> can end at stop module <b>1312</b> or can proceeds to a second secure operation <b>1308</b>. The second secure operation <b>1308</b> couples the tether to the distribution cable using a second retention device. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 17</figref> illustrates an operational flow for one process <b>1700</b> by which the second secure operation <b>1308</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref> can be implemented. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 18 and 19</figref> illustrate the results of the operations of process <b>1700</b>.

0062The process <b>1700</b> begins at start module <b>1702</b> and proceeds to a couple operation <b>1704</b>. The couple operation <b>1704</b> joins a second release device to one end of a flexible strand of material. In a preferred embodiment, the couple operation <b>1704</b> joins the second release device to the first release device (e.g., the aramid fiber/yarn). For example, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 18</figref>, the couple operation <b>1704</b> can join a pin <b>509</b> to the flexible strand <b>504</b> wrapped around the first retention arrangement <b>512</b>. In a preferred embodiment, the pin <b>509</b> is formed from a bent steel rod. In other embodiments, however, the couple operation <b>1704</b> can join the second release device to a flexible strand other than the first release device.

0063A first clasp operation <b>1706</b> secures the second release device either to the tether or to a body of the tether connectors using a second retention arrangement. For example, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 18</figref>, two tie-wraps <b>502</b><i>a</i>, <b>502</b><i>b </i>or other loop structure can hold the pin <b>509</b> to a connector body <b>258</b> of the tether <b>240</b>. In other embodiments, greater or fewer tie-wraps <b>502</b> can be used.

0064A second clasp operation <b>1708</b> secures the second release device to the distribution cable using the second retention arrangement. The tether is thus secured to the distribution cable. For example, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 19</figref>, the pin <b>509</b> can be held to the distribution cable <b>220</b> using a third tie-wrap <b>502</b><i>c </i>and a fourth tie-wrap <b>502</b><i>d</i>. Tape <b>510</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 21</figref>) or another retention device can further secure one or both ends of the pin <b>509</b> to the distribution cable <b>220</b>. The process <b>1700</b> ends at stop module <b>1710</b>.

0065Referring back to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref>, the process <b>1300</b> can end at stop module <b>1312</b> after the second secure operation <b>1308</b> or can proceed to a third secure operation <b>1310</b>. The third secure operation <b>1310</b> couples the tether to the distribution cable using a third retention device. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 20</figref> illustrates an operational flow for one process <b>2000</b> by which the third secure operation <b>1310</b> of <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref> can be implemented. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 21</figref> illustrates the results of the operations of process <b>2000</b>.

0066The process <b>2000</b> begins at start module <b>2002</b> and proceeds to a couple operation <b>2004</b>. The couple operation <b>2004</b> secures a third retention arrangement to the distribution cable. For example, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 21</figref>, the couple operation <b>2004</b> can secure a nose cone <b>514</b> to the distribution cable <b>220</b>. In a preferred embodiment, the nose cone <b>514</b> is secured at a fixed position with respect to the distribution cable <b>220</b>.

0067An insert operation <b>2006</b> couples the third retention arrangement to the tether or to the tether connector body. For example, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 21</figref>, the nose-cone <b>514</b> can be configured to receive at least a portion of the body <b>258</b> of the tether connectors <b>256</b>. In a preferred embodiment, the insert operation <b>2006</b> slides the body <b>258</b> of the tether connectors <b>256</b> into the nose-cone <b>514</b>.

0068In some embodiments, the process <b>2000</b> can end at stop module <b>2012</b> after the insert operation <b>2006</b>. In other embodiments, however, a secure operation <b>2008</b> engages the second release device with the third retention arrangement. For example, in a preferred embodiment, the thread operation <b>2008</b> inserts the pin <b>509</b> through a hole <b>515</b> in a side of the nose cone <b>514</b>.

0069An attach operation <b>2010</b> further secures the second release device either to the distribution cable or to the third retention arrangement. For example, as shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 21</figref>, a protruding portion of the pin <b>509</b> can be fastened to the distribution cable <b>220</b> with tape <b>510</b> after being fed through the aperture <b>515</b> in the nose cone <b>514</b>. In other embodiments, the protruding portion of the pin <b>509</b> can be taped to the nose cone <b>514</b>. The process <b>2000</b> ends at stop module <b>2012</b>.

0070Referring now to <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 22 and 23</figref>, the tether <b>240</b> can be released from the second securement system <b>500</b> after deployment of the distribution cable <b>220</b>. <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 22</figref> illustrates a cable system <b>200</b> including one example of the second securement system <b>500</b> installed in an underground conduit <b>212</b>. The tether connector body <b>258</b> is offset from the hand-hole location <b>210</b> in a first direction and the breakout enclosure <b>208</b> is offset from the hand-hole <b>210</b> in the opposite direction. The hand-hole location <b>210</b> provides access to an intermediate portion of the tether cable <b>240</b>.

0071The second securement system <b>500</b> includes a first retention arrangement (e.g., tape) <b>512</b> wrapped around the tether cable <b>240</b> and distribution cable <b>220</b> at spaced intervals between the enclosure <b>208</b> and the connector body <b>258</b>. A first release device (e.g., a strand of aramid yarn) <b>504</b> forms loops <b>508</b> around the first retention arrangement <b>512</b>.

0072The first release device <b>504</b> attaches to a second release device (e.g., a pin) <b>509</b>. The second release device <b>509</b> is attached to the distribution cable <b>220</b> and to the tether connector body <b>258</b> with a second retention arrangement <b>502</b>. In the example shown, the pin <b>509</b> threads through a first tie-wrap <b>502</b><i>c </i>attached to the distribution cable <b>220</b>, a second tie-wrap <b>502</b><i>a </i>attached to the connector body <b>258</b>, a third tie-wrap <b>502</b><i>d </i>attached to the distribution cable <b>220</b>, and a fourth tie-wrap <b>502</b><i>b </i>attached to the connector body <b>258</b>.

0073A third retention arrangement (e.g., nose-cone) <b>514</b> is also coupled to the distribution cable <b>220</b> and to the connector body <b>258</b> of the tether <b>240</b>. The pin <b>509</b> threads through an aperture <b>515</b> in the nose-cone <b>514</b> and couples to the distribution cable <b>220</b> with tape <b>510</b>.

0074<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 23</figref> illustrates an operation flow for a release process <b>2300</b> by which the tether can be released from the second securement system. The release process <b>2300</b> includes disengaging or unfastening one or more retention arrangements. The process <b>2300</b> begins at start module <b>2302</b> and proceeds to an access operation <b>2304</b>. The access operation <b>2304</b> opens the hand-hole location to enable a user, such as a field technician, to view the second securement system and tether.

0075A first release operation <b>2306</b> disengages the first retention arrangement. In some embodiments, the first release operation <b>2306</b> pulls the first release device to disengage the first retention arrangement. In the example shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 22</figref>, pulling the flexible strand <b>504</b> away from the distribution cable <b>220</b> causes the loops <b>508</b> of the flexible strand <b>504</b> to tighten, thereby cutting the tape <b>512</b> wrapped around the tether <b>240</b> and the distribution cable <b>220</b>.

0076In some embodiments, the securement system <b>500</b> includes only the first retention arrangement and the process <b>2300</b> proceeds to a connect operation <b>2312</b>. The connect operation <b>2312</b> obtains a sufficient amount of freed tether to optically couple the tether to a drop terminal or other type of telecommunications equipment. For example, the tether connectors <b>256</b> can be optically coupled to telecommunications equipment <b>214</b> (<figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref>). The process <b>2300</b> ends at stop module <b>2314</b> after the connect operation <b>2312</b>.

0077In other embodiments, however, the securement system <b>500</b> also includes a second retention arrangement and the process <b>2300</b> proceeds to a second release operation <b>2308</b>. The second release operation <b>2308</b> disengages the second retention arrangement. In some embodiments, the second release operation <b>2308</b> pulls the second release device to disengage the second retention arrangement. In the example shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 22</figref>, for example, pulling the flexible strand <b>504</b> away from the distribution cable <b>220</b> causes the pin <b>509</b> to pull free from the cable ties <b>502</b>. In the example shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 21</figref>, pulling the flexible strand <b>504</b> also causes the pin <b>509</b> to pull free from the nose cone <b>514</b>. In a preferred embodiment, the flexible strand <b>504</b> is pulled with sufficient force to break the tape <b>510</b> securing the pin <b>509</b> to the distribution cable <b>220</b>.

0078In some embodiments, the securement system <b>500</b> includes only the first and second retention arrangements and the process <b>2300</b> proceeds to a connect operation <b>2312</b> after the second release operation <b>2308</b>. In other embodiments, however, the securement system <b>500</b> includes a third retention arrangement and the process <b>2300</b> proceeds to a third release operation <b>2310</b>.

0079The third release operation <b>2310</b> disengages the third retention arrangement. In some embodiments, the third release operation <b>2310</b> pulls the tether to disengage the third retention arrangement. In the example shown in <figref idref="DRAWINGS">FIG. 22</figref>, pulling the tether <b>240</b> away from the nose cone <b>514</b> disengages the connector body <b>258</b> from the nose cone <b>514</b>. From the third release operation <b>2310</b>, the process <b>2300</b> advances to the connect operation <b>2312</b> and proceeds as described above.

0080The above specification, examples and data provide a complete description of the manufacture and use of the invention. It will be appreciated that the various aspects of the present disclosure provide numerous advantages. For example, securing the tether mitigates the chances of damaging the tether and connectors during installation of the distribution cable. Since many embodiments of the invention can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, the invention resides in the claims hereinafter appended.